Use of Alternative Intersections in Order to Improve Traffic Safety

Abstract

The intersection of two or more roads represents the possibility of a conflict between vehicles. Alternative intersection designs can improve intersection performance by changing the configuration of conflict points by redirecting traffic, reducing the number of signal phases, as well as significantly reducing time losses at intersections. Тhe use of alternative intersections such as continuous flow intersections (CFI) (also known as shifted left turns or DLT), divergent diamond loops (DDI), superstreets (also known as J-turns, restricted crossing U-turns, or RCUTs, reduced conflict intersections, or RCIs, reduced conflict U-turns, and synchronized streets), median U-turns (MUTs) became more common, аs traffic demand increases. They are usually more complex than conventional design intersections and they are used when conventional intersection designs do not allow adequate safety improvements or adequate traffic flow. Alternative intersection designs have fewer points of conflict resulting in increased safety for both, drivers and pedestrians.